2021 Warwick "First Lady" Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch

Professional Reviews

Staff Reviews

RR

Rachael Ryan

Rachael Ryan

K&L Buyer

Review Date: 07/2026

Made with a clear nod towards Bordeaux, the 2021 Warwick “First Lady” Cabernet Sauvignon is dominated by graphite and woodsy forest notes over opulent fruit or toasty oak. Light-footed and easygoing, this is an herbaceous and mineral-driven style of wine, with a distinct leafy note running through the core. Crunchy red fruit emerges in the background along with tomato leaf and currant. The tannins are firm but well-integrated, and overall, this is a bright style of Old World-inspired Cabernet Sauvignon that would be great with burgers on the grill or barbecued ribs. There’s a surprising amount of complexity here for a weeknight-priced wine, and you’d be hard pressed to find another Cabernet with this level of winemaking and aromatic complexity at this extremely reasonable price.

Notes

Few wineries have played a more influential role in establishing South Africa's reputation for world-class fine wine than Warwick in Stellenbosch. Although the property dates back to the early 1900s, Warwick's modern story began in 1964 when Stan and Norma Ratcliffe purchased the farm. Norma would go on to become one of South Africa's pioneering female winemakers, releasing Warwick's first Cabernet Sauvignon in 1984 and later creating the country's first Cape Blend, helping cement the estate's international reputation. Today, Warwick continues to farm the granite-rich slopes of Simonsberg, where Cabernet Sauvignon remains the flagship variety alongside classic Bordeaux grapes and, of course, the classic South African variety of Pinotage. The approachable First Lady range pays tribute to Norma Ratcliffe's groundbreaking legacy, with the Cabernet Sauvignon honoring the very first wine ever bottled under the Warwick label, offering all the hallmarks of Stellenbosch Cabernet at an everyday price. The First Lady Pinotage is equally compelling, showcasing the variety's fresh and modern style with vibrant red fruit and silky tannins. These wines offer a wonderful introduction to one of Stellenbosch's most historic estates while delivering exceptional value and unmistakable South African character.